It is more than a month that we celebrate Lebaran and it left positive vibes to most of us as we missed it already. Lebaran is not just a day of victory after a month of fasting. It is about the warmth of togetherness, forgiving each other, and celebrating traditions that are deeply rooted in society. Although celebrated by Muslims in many countries, each place has its own way of interpreting this special moment. This is the case with Indonesia and Malaysia – two allied countries that have their own unique colors and flavors of Lebaran. From homecoming traditions, typical dishes, to the atmosphere on the feast day, each country has its own characteristics that make their Lebaran celebrations so special.
One of the most noticeable differences between Eid in Indonesia and Malaysia is in the traditions and preparations – even down to the name. In Indonesia, Eid is more commonly referred to as Lebaran, while in Malaysia people know it as Hari Raya or Hari Raya Aidilfitri. In Indonesia, the tradition of going home is like a mandatory ritual: millions of people are willing to travel long distances to return to their hometowns, gather with extended family, and let go of homesickness. Not only that, the night before Lebaran is usually enlivened with traveling takbiran, drum marches, and even convoys of vehicles on the streets. While in Malaysia, the “balik kampung” tradition also exists, but the distance is usually closer because the country is smaller. Uniquely, houses in Malaysia are often decorated with colorful lights called raya lights, creating a festive atmosphere in residential neighborhoods. In addition, open houses or open events to receive guests from various circles are one of the characteristics of Lebaran there.
In terms of food, Indonesia and Malaysia both have appetizing specialties, although the menus are different. In Indonesia, the dining table is usually filled with ketupat, opor ayam, rendang, sambal goreng ati, and various pastries such as nastar, kastengel, and putri salju. These foods are not only delicious, but also full of symbolic meaning as a sign of gratitude. On the other hand, Malaysians serve lemang (glutinous rice in bamboo), rendang, serunding (shredded meat), and kuih raya, a variety of Malaysian Eid cookies. Interestingly, guests who come to the open house can taste these various menus without having to bring an official invitation, because the culture of entertaining guests is very strong in Malaysia.
The atmosphere of Eid in both countries also has a slightly different feel. One of the interesting things in Indonesia, when the takbiran night will be full of echoes of takbir in mosques, the streets are crowded with children carrying torches, and sometimes in some places there is a traveling takbir competition. When Lebaran day arrives, the atmosphere is filled with emotion when the extended family gathers to “sungkeman” and forgive each other. In Malaysia, although the religious atmosphere remains strong, the focus is more on the open house event, where not only family, but also neighbours, friends, and officials can visit and stay in touch. Even royal families and high-ranking state officials often hold official open houses that are open to the public, something that is rarely found in Indonesia.
As an Indonesian living in Malaysia and having experienced Lebaran in Malaysia, I can really relate to the different atmosphere. During Eid in Malaysia, I would usually go to the mosque for Eid prayers, then visit my mother’s friends’ houses for an open house. After that, we’d go home, and I’d rest or sleep. In Indonesia, I would pray Eid with my neighbours on the street near my house. It’s always a warm and happy atmosphere, especially when I get to meet so many friendly people. After returning home, there will usually be guests who come to stay with us. We would entertain them, then after they left, the extended family would gather to eat together, shake hands, and take pictures together. The most interesting thing is when I get THR or holiday money from my extended family. After that, there will usually be other guests who come, including distant relatives who I may rarely see on normal days. One thing that I feel, even though in Indonesia I rarely travel during Lebaran because the roads tend to be jammed, the warm and crowded atmosphere at home with extended family still makes Lebaran feel so special.
The duration of Eid in Indonesia and Malaysia is also different. In Malaysia, the Lebaran (Hari Raya Aidilfitri) celebration lasts longer, up to 30 days after the first day of Eid. This tradition is known as “Hari Raya open house”, where family and friends visit and entertain guests throughout the month of Shawwal. In Indonesia, Lebaran is usually celebrated just a day or two after the Eid prayer, with a focus on the immediate family and friendship, although some regions continue the Lebaran atmosphere for several days afterward, especially with the tradition of mudik and visits between families.
Lebaran always brings its own stories and warmth, both in Indonesia and Malaysia. Although these two countries have differences in traditions and ways of celebrating, the essence of Lebaran itself remains the same: a moment of togetherness, forgiving each other, and sharing happiness. Indonesia with its bustling homecoming tradition, festive takbiran atmosphere, and the warmth of extended family, provides an Eid experience full of closeness and togetherness. While in Malaysia, although the celebrations are longer and focus on open houses, the spirit of togetherness and connecting with each other is still felt strongly, creating a distinctive Eid atmosphere with the tradition of eating together and visiting without formality.
At the end of the day, whether in Indonesia or Malaysia, Lebaran is a time to strengthen family relationships, catch up with people you haven’t seen in a while, and celebrate the victory after a month of fasting. Although each country has different ways and traditions, it all comes down to one thing: the joy of sharing and celebrating life with those closest to you. For me, the experience of celebrating Eid in these two countries taught me the importance of respecting differences, while still maintaining the essence of togetherness that is at the heart of every celebration.